On the second anniversary of his administration, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo credited President Bola Tinubu with the successes of his government. Okpebholo said increased revenue from fuel subsidy removal and other reforms by the president had provided resources for infrastructure development and payment of salaries to civil servants and pensioners. He appreciated Edo people for their trust and support in the administration's vision for a better Edo State.
Governor Okpebholo stated that his government had remained focused on delivering practical governance, improving infrastructure, strengthening security, creating opportunities, and rebuilding public institutions through the SHINE Agenda. He noted that the government had moved Edo from "PowerPoint promises to practical governance," focusing on delivering results that people can see and experience in their daily lives.
Okpebholo expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his courage, leadership, and unwavering support for Edo State. He noted that when Tinubu assumed office, he inherited an economy facing deep structural challenges but made difficult but necessary decisions that other past leaders could not make. These decisions included removing the fuel subsidy, introducing a single foreign exchange rate, and comprehensive tax reforms.
The removal of the fuel subsidy has significantly increased revenues available to the three tiers of government, Okpebholo said. This increased revenue gives the government greater capacity to pay salaries and pensions, build roads, improve healthcare, strengthen security, and invest in education. Okpebholo thanked President Tinubu for his support, saying it had enabled his government to deliver on its promises.
President Tinubu's administration has also demonstrated a clear commitment to education, Okpebholo said. Over 15,000 students in Edo State have benefited from financial support to pursue higher education through the NELFUND program. This is an investment in the future of young people, Okpebholo noted.
Okpebholo also highlighted President Tinubu's support for infrastructure development in Edo State. The reconstruction of the Benin-Auchi-Okene Road using concrete pavement technology is progressing, and the president approved the extension of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway by about 100 kilometers across Edo State.
In security, Governor Okpebholo mentioned that President Tinubu approved the establishment of an Army Forward Operating Base and MOPOL 82 Squadron in Edo Central. The Federal Government also recruited, trained, and deployed 500 Forest Guards in Edo State and approved a new Army Division 83 in the state. Okpebholo assured that he remained committed to delivering the promised 2.5 million votes on January 16, 2027.
Key points
- Governor Okpebholo attributes his administration's achievements to President Tinubu's reforms and support.
- President Tinubu's reforms have increased revenue for infrastructure development and social welfare programs.
- Okpebholo commits to delivering 2.5 million votes on January 16, 2027.
